Happenings on the Scene – Check out Ultimate tribute to Journey

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This article was published 24/03/2016 (3695 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Journey tribute band Ultimate Escape consists of top-notch players from the Winnipeg music scene. Since their formation, they’ve been making quite a name for themselves.

Their gig calendar is getting more full as each month passes and the reason is they can deliver the goods. Even the most hard-core Journey fans will agree, they are one of the best tribute acts based on the San Francisco Bay classic rockers out there today.

We spoke with Ultimate Escape member Paul McNair who obliged to participate in a round of 20 questions in this exclusive edition of Happenings on the Scene.

Frank: Obviously you portray the singer (Steve Perry) in the group. Who else is in the band and who do they each portray?

Paul: The other members in the band are Derrick Gottfried (from Harlequin) on guitar, Meg Dolovich on bass, Carlin Lemon on keyboards and Steve Broadhurst (Doc Walker/Road Hammers) on drums.

I really like the title Ultimate Escape — not only does it speak to one of my favourite Journey albums, it alludes to a great night out where one can indeed “escape” the rigours of life’s demands. How did you arrive at going with that title for the act?

The band name came from the album “Escape”, of course, and I do believe there is a band called Tribute Escape from Dallas, so I just thought we’d kick it up a notch … ’cause that’s just how we roll!

I’ve also heard of other Journey tribute acts, such as Departure, Evolution, Anyway You Want It, and Almost Journey. What sets you apart from the others?

I’ve seen some footage of other acts — not sure how many of them have got the call to perform with a symphony. I personally feel that speaks volumes of the level of talent in the band and sets us apart from the rest.

Has it been the same lineup since Ultimate Escape began?

The lineup has been the same since Day 1; however, with busy calendars, subs are sometimes called in — for example, AJ Chabidon, from Harlequin, on drums.

Is there a lot of work for a Journey tribute band?

Since the band formed, the momentum has been continuous, the word of the band is out and this year is becoming very busy.

How long has the Ultimate Escape been in operation?

Just over two years. We formed in February of 2014.

Where does this band play? You’re not just playing in clubs, are you?

Venues range from nightclubs to casinos, private parties and festivals — Countryfest, Craven, Minnedosa, etc.

Where were your most memorable shows?

The (Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra) gig is, without question, the coolest gig so far.

Did you ever get a chance to see the original Journey?

I saw the last show Journey did at the MTS Centre in 2015.It was really cool to see them.

Did you seen them with Steve Augeri or the new guy Arnel Pineda?

Arnel — never did get to see them before.

What were you doing before this group was put together?

Working at Golftown (love golfing!), gigging with Harlequin and other acts to fill the calendar.

Is it safe to say you’d prefer music to be your full-time occupation?

Music has always been No. 1.

Are you the guy who put this group together?

I am the guy who assembled the group, choosing the best musicians Winnipeg had to offer.

On a scale of one to 10, how big of a Journey fan were you before you put this group together?

Seven, maybe an eight — always loved the band.

What is your favourite Journey song to perform?

A deep track like “Escape” — killer notes to hit — and perhaps “Faithfully” — always loved that tune.

If not Journey, what other bands would you consider doing the tribute thing with?

Anything with killer vocals — Supertramp, Eagles. Never really thought of that one.

Which do you prefer — playing original material or performing someone else’s music?

I just love performing. There’s no better place to be than on stage!

So, do the guys in Journey know about Ultimate Escape?

I don’t think that the people in Journey know about us. However, with the momentum this band has taken in the last six months, I would say it’s only a matter of time.

I checked out some of your vids on YouTube and I have to say I was quite impressed. The band looks and sounds amazing! There are some Journey tribute outfits out there that should worry about receiving a cease-and-desist letter from Journey’s attorneys. Have you ever been concerned about that?

Haha — I like this question! I don’t think we would get a cease-and-desist … it would be cool to get their seal of approval. I’m hoping to get the Journey gig! For me, that is the “ultimate” goal, no pun intended.

When you’re in a tribute band like Ultimate Escape, how far up the ladder can you take this act? Do you have an end game? Do you have a certain goal you’re trying to reach?

Our main goal is to always blow people away with the performance. With the incredible success of the last gig with the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, we are already being scouted for the 2017 season with many of the Canadian symphonies. It’ll be a lot of work but we look forward to every show that may come our way.

Frank McGwire is a veteran of the local radio industry, a musician and booster of the music scene in Brandon and Westman.

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